China has strongly criticized Australia and New Zealand, accusing them of exhibiting “colonial-style arrogance” following a joint statement released after the third Australia-New Zealand Foreign and Defence Ministerial Consultations (ANZMIN 2+2). The criticism centers on what Beijing views as unwarranted interference in its internal affairs and a perpetuation of Cold War-era geopolitical framing.
The ANZMIN 2+2 joint statement, issued three days ago, reaffirmed closer alignment between Australia and New Zealand in addressing “permanent strategic contest,” a phrase interpreted by Chinese state media as implicitly targeting China. The Chinese government contends the document deviated from its expected focus on bilateral cooperation by including criticisms regarding China’s internal affairs.
According to a statement from the Chinese Embassy, reported by RNZ New Zealand on Facebook, recent comments from Australia and New Zealand regarding China are “unwarranted and inappropriate.” This follows a pattern of escalating diplomatic tensions, highlighted by China’s broader condemnation of Western nations for what it perceives as interference in its sovereignty.
The core of China’s complaint lies in what it describes as a continued adherence to a “bloc confrontation” narrative, positioning China as an adversary. Beijing argues that Australia and New Zealand, under the influence of their alliance with the United States, are reducing complex international relations to a simplistic “zero-sum game.”
Beyond the geopolitical framing, China has also taken issue with what it sees as hypocrisy in Australia and New Zealand’s human rights rhetoric. The Chinese government points to ongoing domestic issues within both countries – including those related to governance, human rights, and the treatment of Indigenous populations – as areas where Australia and New Zealand should focus their attention before “assuming the role of a ‘judge of human rights’ when it comes to China.”
Specifically, China criticized the joint statement’s condemnation of Iran, accusing Australia and New Zealand of turning “a blind eye” to actions taken by the United States and Israel, including military strikes that have resulted in civilian casualties. This perceived double standard, China argues, undermines the credibility of Australia and New Zealand’s claims to uphold international law and principles of peace and justice.
The statement also took aim at accusations of “destabilising activities” in the South China Sea, questioning the justification for criticism given the presence of foreign military forces in the region. China maintains its actions in the South China Sea are legitimate and within its sovereign rights.
The Chinese government’s response suggests a broader concern that Australia and New Zealand are clinging to a “colonial mind-set,” characterized by a condescending attitude towards other nations and a failure to recognize the shifting global landscape. China views the Asia-Pacific region as a dynamic engine of growth driven by cooperation and mutual benefit, and warns that Australia and New Zealand risk being sidelined if they continue to pursue an outdated and confrontational approach.
No immediate response has been issued by either Australia or New Zealand following the latest criticisms from China. Further consultations between the foreign and defense ministers of both countries are scheduled, but no date has been announced.
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